TESTIMONIALS

(Unsolicited Letters and Emails From Thistledown Clients)

Over the years, a number of Thistledown clients have chosen to send us cards, notes, and emails expressing their feelings about how they were treated at Thistledown and how that experience has impacted on them and other family members. Many clients have told us that unless someone is to visit Thistledown and chat with us, Colin and Nancy, no matter how much they may read about the services offered at Thistledown, they really cannot get a true picture of what Thistledown is all about or how the services offered may benefit them when their pet passes.

You are encouraged to read through these unsolicited comments and consider how beneficial it would be for you and your family to plan a short visit to Thistledown, no matter how young or how old your pet may be. For families with small children, the loss of a family pet often is the first exposure to death for the children. How the loss is explained to them can have a profound impact on them for the rest of their lives.

When you decide to visit, please bring your pet with you, if that is possible. One of the most frustrating aspects for us at Thistledown, is that rarely do we have the opportunity to meet a pet before he or she passes. We hear great stories about the pets who do come to Thistledown after they pass, but we feel cheated not having had the chance to meet them, if even briefly, to enjoy their personality.

The unsolicited comments presented below have been arranged alphabetically by the pet owner’s first name. As you read through the comments, we encourage you to remember the relationship you and your family have with your pet and to try to imagine how each of you will deal with the passing of that special family member when that dreaded day arrives. Sadly, death is a part of life and how we deal with it can have a profound impact both on ourselves and those around us, including our other pets. Unfortunately, our pets’ lives are just too short compared to our own and we must face the reality that in all likelihood our current pets will pass before our time. Make every day special and be thankful your pet found you to help make your life more complete.

If you would like to talk with one of our clients about our services, please give us a call or forward an email outlining your particular situation. Since many of our clients have told us that they would be very willing to talk with other pet owners about their experience at Thistledown, we will ask one of them to give you a call.

Like so many things in life, whether it is the beauty of a sunset or the sheer power of something as magnificent as Niagara Falls, the true impact of the situation cannot be appreciated until you experience it yourself. Many of our clients have told us that although they were impressed by the information provided in the pages of our web site, until they took advantage of the services provided at Thistledown, they really did not understand how they were going to cope with the loss of their pet. As you will observe as you read through the unsolicited tributes that follow, Thistledown is not merely a place that provides cremation services to pet owners, it is a place where pet owners can start to heal following the loss of their pet.

Thank you so much for everything you did for us after our beloved Sampson passed. You were there for us when others were at a loss. The time you spent with us will never be forgotten. You answered our late night phone call and made us feel secure during those very difficult moments when our sweet boy left us. Hopefully, we will see you both soon under happier circumstances. You have both made a huge difference in our lives. (A.M., Keswick, ON)

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Just wanted to thank you both for taking such wonderful care of our Machavelli, As terribly painful losing a family member is, it has brought us great comfort knowing that after his death you lovingly treated him the same way he had been treated by us all his life. (A.T., Ennesmore, ON)

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Nancy and Colin, thank you so much for your kindness in helping us deal with the loss of our beloved Cougar. We will never forget your thoughtfulness and compassion. (A.B., Toronto, ON)

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I would like to express my appreciation for the service which you so graciously provided us when our Lara died. You are truly very kind and thoughtful people. It is a pleasure to have met you, albeit under sad circumstances. Thank you for giving an alternative choice, one which I am happy to have made. I will certainly let our friends know about Thistledown. (A.M, Whitby, ON)

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Nancy and Colin, the world would be a better place if there were more thoughtful and kind people like yourselves. Thank you for making this difficult loss of our dog Buddy less stressful and more manageable. Chuckie was fantastic at being the “grief therapy” dog. We all found him to be amusing and very affectionate. We will definitely come for a visit and a hike on your trails in the near future. (A.C., Oshawa, ON)

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Thank you both for helping us cope with the loss of our dear Hershey. Over the past few days I have visited a number of vet clinics in our area and have described in great detail how “wonderful” Thistledown is. If you can send me some more brochures I will continue to go around the Toronto area and spread the word. (A.C., Thornhill, ON)

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Colin and Nancy we would like to thank you for Hemi and for us. You both made a very sad time in our life a little easier to cope with. This crazy world would be a much better place if only it had half the people as compassionate and devoted as both of you. God Bless you. (A.B., Toronto, ON)

B.

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Words cannot express our gratitude to you both for your help following the recent loss of our baby Oscar. Thank you so much for all you have done for him and for us. You have made this awful time a lot easier and more bearable. Keep up the wonderful work, you are both Angels. (B.K., Oshawa, ON)

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Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support today at Jazz’s cremation. We truly felt our beloved Golden was honoured with grace and respect in the small service and throughout the process. As the afternoon passed, I felt a calm and peacefulness enveloping my heart. What had been a day deeply dreaded, instead became a peaceful healing and acceptance of Jazz’s passing. Bless you both for your caring support. (B.P., Thornhill, ON)

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Thank you for being so kind and caring to Martina today, you helped her more than words could say. There needs to be more people like the two of you that care for about people and their pets on the worst day of their lives. Thanks again. You have a beautiful place; the grounds, everything is so peaceful. Keep up the great work. (B.W., Stouffville, ON)

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I just want to praise you both on the type of business you offer. I think it is beautiful and you and your greeter dog’s kindness have given us a feeling of peace through such a difficult time. Because of the traumatic way in which we lost our dog Goldie, we are so grateful to have found you; it has helped ease our loss. (B.H., Mount Albert, ON)

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Thanking you both so much for your care and assistance at the time of Rylie’s passing. He was with me for such a short while, nevertheless, I miss him dearly. You both came to my rescue at my time of distress and it was greatly appreciated. (B.G., Orillia, ON)

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Thank you for being there. Thank you for your kindness and understanding. Thank you for assisting us through this very sad time. And thank you for your consideration of Forest’s dignity as he was a very shy and private pet. (B.N., Uxbridge, ON)

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Thank you both so much for all you did for our Percy. You have thought of everything and we appreciate your kindness. It is great to know there are people like yourselves in this crazy old world who care for “the creatures big and small”. (B.G., Whitby, ON)

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Nancy and Colin, we are blessed that you are with us to listen, share, comfort, support and most of all, care. (B.B., Courtice, ON)

C.

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Thank you so much for meeting with me last Saturday. You have a really peaceful place, there is so much heart in everything you do. Talking to you and leaving Gema’s ashes to rest really helped me a lot; although I am still very saddened, yet I feel much better and I thank you for that. (C.V., Toronto, ON)

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Thank you for taking care of our Reddy. A big hug to your dog Chuck for leading us safely through the forest. Driving back to Toronto we all commented on how time stopped and that we had all experienced a little slice of Heaven. Thank you for all your efforts; this truly was a lovely tribute to our precious boy. (C.T., Toronto)

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Thank you so much for all your help, kind words and caring. We can’t thank you enough. You truly are angels. (C.H., Port Perry, ON)

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We cannot thank you enough for accommodating Tazz. You were truly amazing in our time of crisis. No one would have stayed so late, on a day off, on such short notice, but you. It truly helped me knowing he was able to come home with me. Nothing eased the pain of losing his presence, but at least I know he was treated with the respect and dignity he deserved. Thank you for helping me do that for him. (C.M., Guelph, ON)

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We cannot thank you enough for being there for us and Charlie when we needed you. The time you spent with us helped us through a difficult time. No one else would have handled Charlie’s body with the level of honest care and concern that you both did. In the past, I worked in the industry at three different animal hospitals. I know for a fact that the bodies were rarely handled with respect. In contrast, the service you provided us was everything wanted and needed; for that we are eternally grateful. (C.H., Port Perry)

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Thank you so much for your kindness and assistance with Clancy. We consider ourselves most fortunate to have found two such caring and dedicated people. You are certainly unique and wonderful human beings. Thank you again. (C.G., Sundridge, ON)

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Just a word of thanks for the compassion shown our family as we grieve the passing of our beloved “Gracie Girl”. We were so blessed by her little life and so fortunate in having Thistledown so thoughtfully care for our girl. We felt peace in having left her in Thistledown’s care where we know she was treated with a tender dignity. God bless you both for the wonderful heartbreaking care you provide. (C.O., Sunderlend, ON)

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Nancy and Colin, thank you very much for your tender care during a difficult time for us. It is comforting to know that you supported us and even let us bring “Little Brandy” along to Thistledown. (C.V., Scarborough, ON)

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Thank you again Colin and Nancy for showing how much you care. I appreciate all you did for Missy and me. I know she was in good and caring hands. (C.T., Little Britain)

D.

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We would like to express our most sincere and heartfelt thanks for helping us deal with the loss of our Lucky. Lucky was a most precious family member and his sudden departure has left a great void in our lives. Your caring and understanding of our loss comforted us as most of our family and friends only saw it as the loss of a cat. You, however, understood the depth of our loss and we thank you for that. In our opinion, Thistledown is providing a badly needed service for those of us who see their pets as family members. You in turn deserve the respect with which you gave us. (D.B., Keswick, ON)

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I just wanted to take a moment to thank you again for your dedication to NSD, our kids, and the Easter Egg Hunt for Dogs. Your contributions have made the Hunt what it is today and I could not have done it without you. (D.F., Cambridge, ON)

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We would like to thank you for your compassionate and thoughtful help last Tuesday, during the cremation of our Susie the Cat. We left with a feeling of peace, and it helped us deal with our loss. What we thought would be a sombre event, was actually a celebration of her life. (D.S., Barrie, ON)

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Thank you so much for all your caring assistance and kind words during our very difficult time. Casey was very loved and will be truly missed. We are so grateful to have had your services available. You can be assured we will be passing your information on to family, friends and our vet clinic. (D.P., Oshawa, ON)

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Our family wants to thank you for everything you did for Harley our beloved dog of 16 years. You made a difficult time comforting for us. We know she is in a better place and we will meet again. (D.V., Port Perry, ON)

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It has truly been our pleasure and fortune to meet such a wonderful, caring and comforting couple. You both have a wonderful gift of making the grieving process more bearable. Although heart-broken and saddened by the loss of our dear Abbey, we left Thistledown with a sense of peacefulness knowing that you took the utmost care of our “girl”. (D.W., Newmarket, ON)

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We’re so glad that we found Thistledown! You two are so very kind, thoughtful and caring. Because of you, our beautiful Kyia received a dignified and meaningful end to her almost 18 years with us. With your help we’ve been able to remember and memorialize her in such a gentle and beautiful way. From the most difficult decisions to the smallest details, you were there each step of the way, helping us make it through. (D.E., Uxbridge, ON)

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A week after we lost Yukon we learned about Thistledown and the services you provide. Still grieving, my husband and I visited you and you spent time with us without any reason other than to help us understand our loss. The kindness, understanding and sympathy that you showed us has helped us to finally begin to heal. We are so thankful and will sing high praises about you and Thistledown. (D.D., Pickering, ON)

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Throughout the whole process of Leya’s illness, when we knew she would not recover, it was good not to have to worry about where we would take her when she left us. I hope you are always there. You provide such a great service to families during such a difficult time. For us, it was really comforting knowing you were taking care of Leya for us, and we didn’t have to worry about her just being mixed in with other dogs in a place we didn’t know and being handled by people who may not give her the care that you do. You have a beautiful facility there. (D.C., Newmarket, ON)

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On behalf of the organizers of our fund raiser, thank you for attending and conducting the Blessing of the Pets yesterday. Your participation really made the day complete and hopefully will raise the public’s awareness of the wonderful work you both do at Thistledown. (D.R., Markham, ON)

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Thank you both for all your care and support as we said good-bye to Timber. You have a very kind and compassionate business and a much needed one. (D.S., Thornhill, ON)

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We will always be indebted to you for the love and compassion with which you helped us at our time of sorrow. Truly, our beloved Maggie guided us to you and we are ever grateful for this. (D.T., Toronto, ON)

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Thank you so much for your compassion and understanding during a difficult time. (D.A., Sunderland, ON)

E.

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Words cannot do justice in expressing how appreciative I am for all the help you have provided me. Beau is still helping so many people and sweet little helpless souls through you both. Beau was obviously extra-special to have inspired you to provide services to help surviving families with their loss. Thank you both for the kindness shown us and for making a difficult time more easy to cope with. (E.P., Mount Albert, ON)

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Nancy and Colin, I have never had the good fortune to meet such a pair as you two. You are both so caring and professional! We shall certainly recommend Thistledown to our friends when they need your services. It is just so much more personal than leaving our pets at the vet clinic to send them God knows where. Your service helps provide closure at such a difficult time. (E.W., Mount Albert, ON)

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Nancy and Colin, I have never met such thoughtful and pet-oriented people! No wonder everyone knows of you. My vet was impressed with your professionalism too. Our thanks again. (EW. Mount Albert, ON)

F.

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We, as a family, wanted to say thank you to you both for what you did for our boy. He lived with dignity and he did his last journey with dignity. Thank you for being there for us. The house seems very empty with time on our hands, but we will heal slowly. (F.V., Markham, ON)

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Thank you for allowing us to give Marquise a final goodbye worthy of the wonderful legacy she left (F.M., Guelph, ON)

G.

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Thank you so much for helping us send Ms. Ebony on her new journey. Dan has told me about your kindness and gentleness with Ebony, and I am so thankful. Thank you too for supporting Dan through this whole process. God Bless as you minister to the broken hearted, and care for their loved ones. (G.G., Parry Sound, ON)

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Just a note to thank you from the heart for all your help and concern over the loss of our Angel. We think you are amazing. Thanks for everything. (G.K, Sutton, ON)

H.

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Your warmth and hospitality have helped my entire family to heal after our sad loss of our 14-year companion, Emmy. Thank you for all the support you and your husband have given us; you are truly genuine people! Without your help, my guilt during our difficult time would have been far too much. I will definitely recommend your business to anyone in need of pet loss services. You and your husband are the most suited people to do such a difficult job! Our appreciation goes out to both of you. (H.T., Uxbridge, ON)

I.

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We all thank you for your help and care when we needed it most for Roxy. It is very much appreciated. (I.J., Oshawa, ON)

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Nancy and Colin thank you both for all of the help and comfort that you provided to us as we worked through Max’s passing. It was very reassuring to know that he would be treated with the same love and respect as we have given him for so many years. Max was very dear to both of us and the house is not the same without him. Your help was a blessing. (I.M., Uxbridge, ON)

J.

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Your place has been recommended to me by staff at my dog’s vet clinic. I have looked through the web sites of other pet crematoriums but I prefer your services. Although your place is far from where I live, because you have a Dedicated Cremation that would allow me and my family to hold our pet until the cremation process begins, and we can take our pet’s ashes right after the cremation has finished. (J.D., Etobicoke, ON)

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Thank you so much for your kindness and support during our time of grievance. We are forever grateful for your help with us getting through this difficult period. Annie is in a better place because of you. (J.B., Richmond Hill, ON)

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Thanks for all your concerns and support regarding Annie’s passing. You were wonderful and made the parting so much more bearable. (J.M., Oshawa, ON)

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Dear Colin and Nancy, I just wanted to take a moment to thank you both from the bottom of my heart for the compassion and dignity that was shown to our family yesterday as we all helped to ease our “lovely old boy” Winston to the “other side”. We sensed your true caring right from the beginning,… both of you. Yes we are grieving and the kids’ hearts are completely shattered, but this experience has left us feeling that Winston left this world at the right time and in a most honourable way, which is what he deserved. Thank you so much for the emotional support that you gave to a family grieving the loss of a special companion and friend. It will never be forgotten. (J.N., Barrie, ON)

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Thank you for being so sensitive to the loss of our Zeus. You’ve made it a lot easier for our whole family. (J.C., Toronto, ON)

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Thank you both so very much for your kindness and the gentle manner in which you ``took care`` of our beloved Harley. (J.D., Sutton, ON)

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Thanks so much for your assistance and kindness today with Rex. My sister and I thank you for helping us on this very emotional day. It is never easy to say goodbye, but having you there certainly made us both feel better. Thanks again. (J.G., Brooklin, ON)

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Without your support and back-up, I don’t know how I would have managed through one of the hardest days of my life. Just knowing that you understood and were willing to be there in my time of need was very comforting. You have a very beautiful place in Uxbridge and along with the both of you provides a much needed service for those of us in need. It was a blessing to have found you and your help and caring was very much appreciated. Thank you so much for all you did for me. (J.H., Scarborough, ON)

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From the many hearts that have been comforted by your caring;

For the understanding and respect you give to all;

For giving of yourselves so freely and deeply;

For your warm and generous spirit and integrity;

For the gift of peace;

Deepest gratitude.

No one who has been touched by your special brand of caring will ever forget the many ways you have guided and helped on a difficult journey. (J.J., Bondhead, ON)

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I want to thank you again for taking care of my Little Angel T.J. and treating her with the utmost respect and dignity at the end of her life that she deserved. I will always be thankful and will remember how thoughtful and caring you were for myself and T.J. (J.W., Port Perry, ON)

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As promised, here are a couple of pictures of Murphy. We just want to thank you both again for making the loss of Murphy and his cremation as easy as possible for both of us. We both feel better now that we have his ashes at home with us. (J.M., Scarborough, ON)

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Just a note to say “Thanks”. You definitely made a difference. (J.T., Oshawa, ON)

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I thank you both for that special day; it was like being in Heaven, so peaceful and quiet. That day, I know that the Lord made a way for me to cremate Lollipop. Nancy and Colin you both made us feel so welcome and you just knew exactly what we were going through. I am so blessed to have known this place. I would love to come back to be in this beautiful and peaceful place and to see you both again. (J.W., Whitby, ON)

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It's been five months since our Pomeranian, Alexa passed away and was cremated at Thistledown. I feel so fortunate that we found you - we just about used the services that were affiliated with our vet's clinic, however, we decided to bring Alexa home and think about it before making a decision. When considering my options previously, I didn't really think it would matter - what we did afterwards. She'd be gone, so that would be all that mattered, right? Being in the situation, however, we were drawn to your services. An aunt who was also an animal lover had visited you previously and recommended you. I'm so glad we made the decision to come to Thistledown. You answered our call right away and were expecting us when we arrived. Being able to take our time while there made all the difference. Knowing that she'd be cremated the next day and being able to pick her up the day after that also made all the difference rather than knowing that she was sitting in a bag in some freezer somewhere, which is most likely what would've happened if we chose to work with someone else. Being able to bring home Alexa's urn really helped us to start healing and moving forward.

Colin, I remember you mentioning that the part of the job that you wish were different was that you wish you had a chance to meet the pets before they passed away; generally, you only get to meet them after they've died. I mentioned that I'd send you a video montage of Alexa once it had been completed. Well, it's finally done, so I wanted to send it to you so you could see a bit of what Alexa was like when she was alive. Thank you for everything.” (J.M., Ajax, ON)

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I wanted you to know again how thankful I am for all you gave and did yesterday in my very personal send-off of Cally’s physical form. I felt on sacred ground all day and know in my heart how grateful Cally was too. Your personal care of us both yesterday made a hard good-bye beautiful. Everything we did, from the moment I walked in the door with Cally, felt filled with love. It could not have been a more personal experience and one I will always hold close to my heart. I felt blessed to have found you. (J.I., Toronto, ON)

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Thank you both so very much for your support during and after Jed’s passing. Your kindness and generosity of your time at Thistledown was key to helping me through the day and helping Jed get his new spirit home. I miss him dearly and I feel so fortunate to have been his caregiver. Thanks again so much for such an incredible experience. (J.C., Cannington, ON)

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We just wanted to say what a true blessing you are for our family and pet. You gave us so much useful information and so very much comfort. Knowing how you handled and cared for our pet made all the difference in the world to us. We were at comfort knowing Scarlett was with the two of you. Having her put to sleep in our vehicle instead in a cold room in a clinic made all the difference to us. That was the best advice ever. You two are such a true blessing to our community. Thank you for being there for us. (J.M. Uxbridge, ON)

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Thank you for your compassion in dealing with Milo`s cremation. Your care and thoughtfulness made this transition easier for our family. (J.M., Scarborough, ON)

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We would like to thank you for your support at a difficult time for our family. Your presence at the time of our loss was hugely appreciated. Our family is slowly accepting Dakota’s demise; as they say, “time is the best healer”. We are spreading the word about the good work you do at Thistledown. (J.B., North York, ON)

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Nancy, I am sure that you do not know what a tremendous help you were to me and to my girls. You truly are an angel. I was very lucky to have found you. (J.C., Pickering, ON)

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Ron and I want to thank you both so very much for all the love and respect that you gave to Shadow, and the kindness you gave to Ron and me this past week. I know as the days go by the tears will become less but we will never forget you both for all you have shown to us and our family. (J.G., Whitby, ON)

K.

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Thank you very much for the hospitality you extended to Teasy and me at Thistledown on Monday. I was glad to be able to see her off at such a wonderful place. I am not sure how much more time it will take me to heal of this grief, but we will never forget everything you did for us. (K.T., Barrie, ON)

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Colin and Nancy, thank you so much for your kindness and true compassion. The “service” you provide to people is something that words cannot express. Not every person understands how much any pet can become such a part of your life, but the two of you do. Thank you again for all you have done. (K.J., Midland, ON)

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I would like to thank you for all your support during the loss of my beloved Kayak. You made a difficult time much easier to cope with. (K.H., Toronto, ON)

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Thank you very much for all your support through our preparations and final goodbye for our beloved Angel. She was an extremely special dog and we will miss her forever, but through your caring, support and offering of caring memorial services, we are working through the grieving and living with the wonderful memories. Your service is invaluable and your caring is very special. (K.M., Markham, ON)

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Nancy and Colin, thank you very much for all your support during my “Fluffy” crisis. I am so grateful and lucky to have such caring and compassionate people like you guys in my life. You guys are the greatest. (K.M., Uxbridge, ON)

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Margaret and I are extremely pleased with your support and consideration with our loss of Alex. We think you know what a valuable service you provide to loving pet owners such as ourselves. It was devastating to us to lose him and you made the grief and pain a little less. It will always hurt that he is gone, but we are happy in that his passing was handled with love and dignity. (K.S., Keswick, ON)

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Nancy and Colin how do we ever put into words the incredible care, compassion and love you gave us to say “Good-bye Taffy”. We will always treasure you both for your support and sincerity to allow us to give Taffy girl a start on her journey into Heaven with honour and dignity. (K.G., Toronto, ON)

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Thank you for coming by last Thursday and helping with Indy. I thought the euthanasia went very well and was extremely peaceful for Indy. I appreciate all the support you offered. While I do feel a great loss in my heart, I know it was the best decision to be made for Indy. (K.C., Uxbridge, ON)

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I would like to thank you for all you have done for me, my family, and our baby Bella. You guys have been able to put my heart at rest with all your kindness. (K.F., Ajax, ON)

L.

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Thank you for the kindness and compassion you showed us during the recent loss of our beloved cat Charlie. Charlie was a beautiful companion and much loved member of our family. Your cremation services allowed us to provide Charlie with the dignity and respect he deserved. During this difficult time, we have found some peace knowing that you cared for him after death with love and compassion. Charlie has left behind wonderful memories and a void that can never be filled. Thank you again for all your care and kind words as it has made this time a little easier. (L.C., Toronto, ON)

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Words cannot express my gratitude for the kindness that you both have shown to me. (L.P., Whitby, ON)

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I am writing to thank you so very much for taking the time yesterday to introduce me to Thistledown. I was truly amazed at the fabulous service the two of you provide to pet owners! Being a pet owner my whole life I wish I had heard of Thistledown long ago. (L.W., Port Perry, ON)

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It was a pleasure meeting you both last weekend. I want to thank you for taking such good care of Newman. He was such a special part of our lives and we are so thankful to have him home. (L.R., Brooklin, ON)

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I would like to say thank you very much for making the death of Chinook much easier. If it weren’t for you two I would be a basket case by now. (L.L., Stouffville, ON

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We want to thank you for helping us through one of the hardest times we’ve had. The true respect, love and kindness you both showed us was heartfelt. We know “our girl” was handled the “right way”. (L.S., Uxbridge, ON)

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I can never properly express how grateful I am that I found you. During what turned out to be the most traumatic thing I have ever endured, you people were the kindest, most compassionate souls I ever could have hoped for. Your gentle assistance with necessary details; but mostly, your empathetic nature, and genuine interest in Devon meant so much to me. Thank you for listening (even to the stories of a dog you hadn’t known), it was some solace during a most painful time for me. You are truly beautiful human beings. (L.D., Oak Ridges, ON)

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I just want to thank you again for everything you did. It really helped us being able to bring Bruiser home. A sense of peace came over me, just feeling he was home again (in a different form of course). I think you really made an impression with our daughter; she wants to come up and see you again. I can’t thank you enough for that. What you are doing is amazing! You two are the best! Thank you so much, from the bottom of our hearts. (L.T., Ajax, ON)

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Thank you for making the final step in Paquito’s life so beautiful. Your kindness and caring, and your taking the time helped us more than you’ll ever know. We miss Paquito dearly, but each day is a little better. I’m spreading the word about Thistledown; we were so pleased with everything. (L.P., Mississauga, ON)

M.

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Thank you for all your caring support during the difficult times after Miranda’s death. You were wonderful. (M.M., Toronto, ON)

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Nancy and Colin, thank you so much for all your understanding and kindness. I know my dog Jake received the best care. Your love for animals is truly admirable. (M.D., Sharon, ON)

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We met the other day during Durham College’s visit to Thistledown. I had a wonderful experience that day and I am so glad we had the chance to meet. I have put your cards out at the clinic and I am telling clients about your special place. (M.P., Toronto, ON)

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Many thanks for your care and devotion. (M.M., Markham, ON)

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Please accept our heartfelt thanks for all your kindness and compassion in helping us say goodbye to our beloved Hershey. We know from meeting you that he was handled with dignity and respect, and that meant the world to us. It also gave us great comfort. (M.B., Stouffville, ON)

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Thank you for your compassion at this difficult time. You are the best. (M.R., Mississauga, ON)

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Thank you very much from the bottom of my heart for the wonderful things you were able to do for my girl Ruby. You are both such wonderful and gracious people. This difficult time is not easy for anyone and to know that there are people like you who care for animals so much that your kindness will stay with me forever. I know that Ruby was treated with dignity and respect, and with such loving care, and for that I am eternally grateful. (M.V., Gilford, ON)

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Thank you so much for all your thoughtfulness and consideration in helping us choose memorials for our horses Lu and Heartly. The spirit of generosity in your work is beyond all expectations and is much appreciated. (M.D., Uxbridge, ON)

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Thank you again for treating Pepper with dignity and respect. We will never forget her or you. (M.T., Little Britain, ON)

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Thank you both again for taking care of Butch and treating him with dignity and respect. I’m hoping we don’t need to see you again soon (unless it’s socially). Both Butch and Pepper are greatly missed and will never be forgotten; as neither will you be. (M.T., Little Britain, ON.)

N.

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Colin and Nancy, your help with Tessa’s arrangements is something we will never forget. Your kindness and compassion was a great source of comfort to us. Thank you again. (N.P., Norwood, ON)

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I don’t where to start; thank you is just not enough for the compassion you showed me and the rest of Lexie’s family. You truly made this process easier and made an unbearable emotional time somewhat tolerable. You took care of my baby girl as though she were your own.. … I believe she sent me to you and I am grateful for that. She always rescued me emotionally and even in her death she did the same. (N.S., Uxbridge, ON)

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We want you to know that your every attention to the details, your sensitivity and understanding toward our children, and your comforting presence during our family’s greatest day of grief, brought comfort and calm to us all. We know that once our grief, guilt, shock and disbelief pass, that the day we spent under your care and expertise will bring us the peace of closure, that only the knowledge and certainty that we gave Mercedes the most dignified final honours to her devotion to us, can bring. We know that we did it our way and that each of us had a chance to participate at our own comfort level. All our family and friends have been moved to tears when we tell them the details of our day with you both at Thistledown. We thank you for being so professional, genuinely caring, flexible, and for your integrity. (N.B., Toronto, ON)

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I feel comforted in my grief placing the remains of my beloved Molson in your most capable hands. You share your special gift of empathy unto others; I cannot thank you enough for the great efficiency, care and speed with which Molson’s ashes were returned to me. (N.P., Oshawa, ON)

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You’ve been there for me when I needed you most. Someone to count on, someone who cares. Always with compassion and understanding. (N.P., Oshawa, ON)

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Thank you so much for your love, care, concern, and help during the time I lost Echo. Your help made a difficult time much easier. As you have given me reminders of Echo, you have brought a little bit of Heaven to earth reminding me that God does not forget our faithful friends here in life. May you continue to serve Him and bless others in their time of loss as you did for me. (N.W., Uxbridge, ON)

O.

P.

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We would like to thank you very much for your kindness when we brought Sally to be cremated. We will recommend Thistledown to anyone who needs help with their pet. (P.S., Pickering, ON)

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I have to again "thank you" from the bottom of my heart for all your TLC toward our big boy. Your attention to detail, kindness and consideration really did help us to get through this difficult time. I would say you two are exactly where you should be, doing what you were always meant to be doing because you do it so very well.....from Colin greeting us in a calm, soft spoken manner, his over and above efforts in making the paw prints, to all your attention to detail Nancy in preparing all the "little extras" and willingness to let us visit when it was a good time for us. Thank you barely begins to express how I feel. (P.S., Pickering, ON)

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We would like to thank you both from the bottom of our hearts for everything you did for our beloved “Spirit”. Your compassion, empathy and kindness will never be forgotten. You are both amazing people and we are so grateful we found you. Thistledown Pet Memorial enabled us to give our beloved “Spirit” the respect and dignity he so deserved. We will be forever grateful!We miss Spirit immensely but we know with time our hearts will begin to heal. Thank you so much for being there when we needed you! (P.B., St. Catharines, ON)

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The loss of our treasured family member Callebaut seems almost too much to bear at times. However, we are comforted in knowing the service you provided for us was caring, special, and a fitting beginning to a new life for Callebaut where he can run free with friends who had gone before him. Thank you so much for making a very difficult time a little bit easier. Your patience, understanding, gentle and respectful ways, were of great consolation for us and we have told many friends how pleased we are of your exceptional personalized service. We know that time will eventually heal the pain and emptiness we feel, but while we mourn our great loss now we are uplifted in knowing Callebaut has wonderful new friends who cared for him at Thistledown. (P.C., Unionville, ON)

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Nancy and Colin, thank you for holding my “Carers” and looking after me for them. They needed you both (Meow). Sam and Chuck, thank you too, for guarding my soul and being my Spirit Guardians. (P. “Pretty Girl” M., Oshawa, ON)

Q.

R.

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Thanks to the two of you, I was able to assist my family in an expeditious way of moving forward with our healing process over the loss of Simbah. Your willingness to go the extra distance was so appreciated. I cannot thank you enough for having taken the casket we purchased from you to the Newmarket Purolator depot in the snow that evening when it could not get out that afternoon from Uxbridge. Arriving on time the next morning with your very personal notes of condolence allowed us to move forward and I want to thank you for that,. Your extra effort was so appreciated by me and won’t be forgotten. (R.P., North York, ON)

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Nancy and Colin, thank you for all your support. I just wanted to thank you for all your help with my arrangements. Thank you for all the good work you do helping people who have lost their pets. (R.H., Pickering, ON)

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Thank you for all your kindness. (R.B., Toronto, ON)

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We would like to thank you for your outstanding empathy, professionalism, and care with regard to the cremation of our little lost friend. We have had many pets over the years, all of them unforgettable. However, never ever has anyone accorded us such dignity and warmth as you both have done at what is always a very difficult time. Words simply cannot convey how the true passion for what you do comes through in the services you provide. As we will always have fuzzy friends at our house, we also, unfortunately, will continue to lose them over time and after our experience with Thistledown, we would never even consider entrusting our best friends to anyone else. R.O., Hastings, ON)

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We would like to thank you on behalf of our beloved Ginger for the wonderful help and tremendous insight we received during the entire process of cremation. We are devastated by her loss. Being with you as our guides and great listeners was a great part of the healing process, allowing us to let her go free while remembering and emphasizing how beautiful and special she truly was. Once again, thank you for the out of this world reception. (R.R., Brampton, ON)

S.

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Thanks again for giving my sweet cat Seven such a beautiful resting place. Your kindness and thoughtfulness made a difficult time a little easier. (S.F., Toronto)

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Nancy and Colin, we are so grateful that folks like you exist to make our loss just a bit easier. (S.L., Caesarea, ON)

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We wanted to thank you very much for your kindness and compassion during this difficult time in our lives. Bruno meant the world to us and we are so glad we found you. Bringing Bruno to you gave us a real sense of comfort knowing that he was getting the best treatment. All the little extras are very appreciated and will be cherished. (S.H., Mount Albert, ON)

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You are both such kind and caring folks that we have been blessed to have met you. “Thanks” seem rather inappropriate to describe how grateful we are. May you continue to touch the lives of others as you have done for us. (S.L., Caesarea, ON)

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Thanks so much again for everything that you have done for us and for my baby Shadow. Please add myself and my mother to the email list for events. If you need anything please let me know. You are both angels and I thank God that he sent us you both. (S.S., Oshawa, ON)

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Colin and Nancy, we appreciate all that you did for us, that Sassy was treated with dignity and care after she had left us meant so much to us. We are doing a little better each day but we still miss her terribly. (S.D., Port Perry, ON)

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Colin and Nancy your caring and compassion toward us during this difficult time was beyond expression. We are fortunate to have found you and wanted to let you know how much you are appreciated. Thank you just seems too inadequate. God Bless you both. (S.W., (Toronto, ON)

Bless you for all your kindness and your wonderful service. (S.T., Newmarket, ON)

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I have been thinking about you both so often; how I appreciate who you are, what you do with such great depths of kindness, understanding, patience and love… and… so much more in that wonderful environment you have created. (S.M., Tweed, ON)

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Just a short note to thank the two of you for all the support and help you have given us. Bruno’s plaque is beautiful and it will enhance his resting place. I miss him so much and always will. Once again, many thanks. (S.B., Stouffville, ON)

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Colin and Nancy, your extraordinary kindness and understanding guided me through one of the darkest days of my life. (S.T., Port Perry, ON)

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There aren’t enough words to convey how deeply touched I truly am for everything that you both have done. Rosebud will live forever and a day in my heart and that will never change. Dear Toby will live forever in your hearts too. Eternally grateful. (S.F., Oshawa, ON)

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We weren’t sure how today would go or if we would have the courage to say goodbye to our little boy, Winston. We can’t thank the two of you enough for the care, compassion and thoughtfulness that you showed us today. You helped us plan every little detail and let us be involved as much or as little as we liked. It meant a lot to us to see Winston through the entire process. You helped us to end Winston’s suffering in a way that we didn’t think was possible; peacefully. We were shocked at how at peace we felt throughout the entire process and it was thanks to the two of you. All of the special touches that you did for us today were unexpected but very much appreciated. Thanks again for everything. We will continue to share our experience with as many family and friends as we can so they can experience what we did today. We met you as strangers but have left as friends. Keep up the great work! (S.C., Barrie, ON)

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We wanted you to know your compassion and empathy meant so much to us following the loss of our Chloe. It has been a hard grieving process for us, but knowing others understand is truly a blessing. Should anyone ask, we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Thistledown. (S.M., New York, NY)

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It is difficult to find the words to express my sincere gratitude to you both for being there with me as I said my final goodbyes to my special Emily. Your kindness, warmth and empathy will never be forgotten. Thank you again for your kindness and the wonderful service you provide to people who are in the midst of shock and disbelief over the loss of a cherished family member. What I found most comforting was the empathy felt by others who truly understood this profound loss. (S.R., Unionville, ON)

T.

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The care you provided in laying Newman to rest was outstanding. There were no questions unanswered. The service for Newman helped us as we move through the grieving process. All pets should be honoured this way. You went above and beyond. (T.G., Brooklin, ON)

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I wanted to let you know that our family appreciated everything you did for us when we lost Taz and Casper. You are so caring and kind and it made the day so much easier for the three of us. I think that was the hardest thing we ever had to go through; losing two faithful companions on the same day. We miss them terribly. We want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You are such special angels and we thank you both. (T.H., Port Perry, ON)

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I would like to thank you both for taking the time today to give Scamp the send-off that she deserved and for helping me be a part of saying :goodbye” to my little girl. (T.K., Toronto, ON)

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Thank you very much for your caring thoughts and support during our difficult time. It really meant a lot to us that we were able to make the arrangements we had for Nanouk. (T.M., Toronto, ON)

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Thank you both so very much for your help and compassion when our sweet girl Sapphire passed away. Thank you for opening on your day off and for treating Sapphire so kindly. (T.D., Markham, ON)

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We cannot express in words how grateful we are for your kindness and support during this difficult time following the passing of our Kiwi. (T.O., Uxbridge, ON)

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Just a short note to express our sincere thanks for the compassion, tenderness and reverence you showed while we left our precious “Goliath” in your care for cremation. And thank you for consoling us while in your presence. You offer such a wonderful service at Thistledown and we are sure you have eased the pain of grief for many, many families. You both obviously touch the hearts of the families you serve because you come from the heart. As a Grief Counsellor and Thanatologist, I want you to know that your beautiful facility and service provided fulfill a very therapeutic stepping stone in one’s journey through grief. We will never forget what the two of you have done for the two of us and our dear “Goliath”. (T.E., Oshawa, ON)

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We would like to thank you so much for everything you both did for Jake and ourselves. Your understanding and support is greatly appreciated. (T.M., Bracebridge, ON)

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I cannot thank you both enough for the peace you brought to my heart with the kindness and respect you gave Sasha and me. She will always have a special place in my heart as will the two of you (T.R., Brooklin, ON)

U.

V.

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Nancy and Colin, you both are very close to our hearts always. You make such a difference by somehow bringing a bright spot to a very dark and sad place in time. (V.B., Courtice, ON)

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Thank you so much for helping us throughout the saddest time in our lives. Your kind words and

gentle care helped us so much in our grief. Our Lenny was handled with dignity and love, and we will never forget that. (V.G., Perkinsfield, ON)

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Thank you so much for your help and support. (V.F., Newmarket, ON)

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You and your husband have obviously given great thought and care to the needs of grieving pet owners and it clearly shows in all you do. We will be certain to recommend Thistledown for our patients aftercare needs. (V.G., Toronto, ON)

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We just wanted to send a note to thank you so much for the care and dignity you afforded our darling orange tabby Chester. We loved him so much and miss him so much. We are so thankful for the service you offer; there is nothing else like it and it means so much. Keep on providing your wonderful service. (V.R., Oshawa, ON)

W.

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Sincere thanks for all your kindness in dealing with our dog, Goldie. Our experience with Thistledown definitely lightened our loss. You are both very special people. Wishing you all the best in the future. (W.H., Mount Albert, ON)

X.

Y.

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With sincere thanks for your kindness and compassion you showed us when our Sammy passed. It was truly appreciated and there should be more people like you in this crazy old world…. God Bless you in your good work. (Y.G., Whitby, ON)

Z.

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After the sudden loss of our loving cat, we were referred to Thistledown by our pet clinic. This was our first time facing loss of our beloved pet; we had no idea what and how to deal with this. You both held our hands as we went through the entire process; you completely understood our culture, the spirit of our pet and our feeling of sorrow. You treated us with great patience and respect, and we felt your deep caring both for us and for our pet. You offered us warm and loving hearts. We were very touched. This experience was very tough for us but you made it stress-free. Thank you both again, we are blessed to have met you. (Z.Z., Scarborough, ON)